Aquaculture – Andhra Pradesh Plans Major Seafood Growth Corridor Across Coast
Aquaculture – Andhra Pradesh is preparing an ambitious plan to strengthen its aquaculture industry, with Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu announcing a proposed aqua corridor that will connect key coastal centres including Amaravati, Bhimavaram, Kakinada, Visakhapatnam, Krishnapatnam and Nellore. The initiative is aimed at improving seafood production, boosting exports and creating a stronger ecosystem for the fisheries sector.
Focus on Infrastructure and Innovation
Speaking at the National Workshop on Seafood Exports in Visakhapatnam, the Chief Minister said the state government is committed to supporting the aquaculture industry through better infrastructure, advanced technology, research facilities and innovation-driven growth. He noted that long-term development would also depend on value addition and efficient processing systems that can improve the competitiveness of seafood products in international markets.
The two-day workshop has been organised by the Department of Fisheries under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, in partnership with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and with support from the Andhra Pradesh government.
Aqua Corridor to Support Industry Expansion
According to Naidu, the proposed corridor will serve as a comprehensive network supporting research centres, startup ventures, innovation hubs and seafood processing facilities. He also unveiled plans to strengthen the identity of Indian seafood in overseas markets through the promotion of the “Andhra Shrimp, India Seafood” brand.
The Chief Minister stressed that coordinated efforts from governments, industry stakeholders and exporters would be essential to increase India’s share in the global seafood trade.
Blue Economy Seen as Future Growth Engine
Highlighting the growing importance of marine resources in economic development, Naidu described the Blue Economy as a significant contributor to future growth. He said the fisheries sector would have a key role in helping India achieve its long-term development objectives.
He further emphasized the need to integrate concepts such as “Pond to Port,” “Farmer to Global Consumer,” and “Blue Economy to Viksit Bharat” to create a seamless value chain for fisheries and seafood exports.
Andhra Pradesh Maintains Strong Position
The Chief Minister pointed out that Andhra Pradesh enjoys substantial advantages due to its 1,053-kilometre coastline, along with access to ports and airports that support efficient transportation of seafood products.
He stated that the state contributes nearly 28 percent of India’s total fish production and about 66 percent of shrimp output. Andhra Pradesh also accounts for approximately 38 percent of the country’s seafood export earnings, with annual exports exceeding ₹28,000 crore.
Call for Regional Fisheries Office
Naidu urged the Union Government to establish a regional office of the Fisheries Ministry in Andhra Pradesh and assured that land for the project could be allocated within 15 days. Responding to the proposal, Union Fisheries Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh said construction could begin within a month after land allotment.
The Chief Minister also welcomed central support for mega seafood processing parks and underlined the importance of expanding processing capacity. He observed that only a limited share of aquaculture production currently undergoes processing and said there is considerable potential in value-added seafood products, branding and export-focused manufacturing.
Centre Announces Kakinada Harbour Project
Addressing the gathering, Rajiv Ranjan Singh highlighted the rapid growth of India’s fisheries industry over the past decade. He said national fish production has reached 197 lakh tonnes, while seafood exports have crossed ₹73,000 crore.
The minister also announced approval for a Smart and Integrated Fishing Harbour at Kakinada under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana. The project, estimated at ₹72.42 crore, is expected to accommodate more than 400 fishing vessels, support large-scale fish landings and create employment opportunities in the region.
Technology and Logistics Key to Export Growth
Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal stressed the importance of adopting innovation and advanced technologies to strengthen India’s seafood export ecosystem. He said the government’s objective is to establish India as a trusted global supplier known for quality, sustainability and value-added seafood products.
Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu also highlighted the importance of efficient logistics systems and improved air cargo facilities in supporting the growth of seafood exports from the country.